River Cruising - a new way to Explore!

RIVER CRUISING A better way to explore! River cruising is, quite simply, the best way to travel through many of the world's most fascinating places. Comfortable, convenient and safe, it offers a greater variety of destinations than you could not encounter any other way - and lets you get in-depth exposure to the culture and history of each region. Both experienced and first time travelers have discovered the joys of river cruising, making it the fastest growing segment of the cruising industry. The new "cool" in cruising AKA "Boutique Cruising" Our River Cruising Partners Ama Waterways Avalon (Globus Family) Uniworld A More Intimate Experience Because River ships are designed to accommodate between 150 and 300 guests, it is easy to make new friends, share a drink with the couple you met on the day's tour, or dine with interesting people in the open seating restaurant. And you can forget about waiting in long lines. Imagine! stepping off your floating hotel into town/cities like Amsterdam, Budapest, Cairo or Beijing. Enjoy the local culture and history by exploring on your own or taking one of the included walking tours with an English speaking guide. THE JOYS OF RIVER CRUISING... A river cruise brings you to the heart of the destination Historic cities and towns like Amsterdam, Budapest, Vienna and Moscow Exotic destinations throughout Europe, Russia, Asia, Egypt & Africa to name a few Local culture and history within a stones throw Cultural Enrichment Onboard presentations and demonstrations tha tentertain as well as inform Evening entertainment, local or onboard musicians Immersive shore excursions - included with English speaking guides Optional (extra cost) excursions available Most river cruises now have personal head-sets for excursions Some River cruises also offer bicycles for your pleasure in port New Scenery - All Day, Every Day Enjoy breathtaking scenery from just about everywhere on the ship - in the bar, restaurant or lounge (all with panoramic views), on the sun deck with fresh air or from the privacy of your stateroom. And, river cruise vessels keep moving, so you see new vistas and explore new destinations throughout the day, every day. River cruises often travel at night, so you can wake up in an exciting new place each morning, with no effort on your part. EUROPE Experienced travelers agree that a European river cruise is one of the most enjoyable and hassle-free ways to explore Europe's castles, cathedrals and picturesque villages. And with River Cruising, your opportunities to discover the very best these destinations have to offer are endless. Travel along the famous rivers of Europe with a Rhine and Danube river cruise and discover fascinating history and authentic experiences with comprehensive sightseeing plus your own exploration. It's a simple way to travel and you're in the middle of the action, not seeing it from afar. Plus there's plenty of time to unwind. Think of this as your own personal journey of discovery through Europe. ASIA The Mekong River winds its way from the Tibetan plateaus of China's Yunnan province, through the rainforests, plains and rice fields of 5 Southeast Asian countries before meeting the South China Sea. In terms of length, it's the 12th largest river in the world, but in terms of historic, cultural and ecological richness - the Mekong has no equal. The sagas of ancient empires, colonial powers and modern conflicts have unfolded along her banks. And, through it all, the Mekong remains first and foremost a lifeline. Temples, trade routes and fishing villages in the river's path are today untouched by time, just as the way of life they represent. And nowhere are the river's riches more apparent than in the neighboring - but distinct countries of Vietnam and Cambodia. EGYPT "Egypt is the gift of the Nile." So wrote the Greek scholar, Herodotus. From the cities to rural villages, where life goes on as it did thousands of years ago, a cruise along the Nile is like watching 5,000 years of culture unfold before your eyes. Marvel at the contrasts as you sail past simple villages surrounded by luxuriant palm groves, fertile plantations, romantic desert hills, lush oases, modern cities and ancient colonnaded temples and pyramids. AFRICA With its incredible natural beauty, fascinating wildlife and diverse cultures, this continent is becoming an increasingly popular destination among North American travelers. FEATURES OF RIVER CRUISING Easy embarkation/disembarkation Unpack only once Children are not encouraged/no children's programs onboard Transfers on arrival and departure included with supplier's air Intimate ships Spacious staterooms, most with French balconies or windows that open English speaking crew English speaking tour guides Gratuities may be prepaid or paid at the end of the cruise Classic, gourmet cuisine - regional specialties and American fare SO, WHEN IS THE BEST TIME FOR A RIVER CRUISE? Spring..................................Summer.....................................Fall Spring and fall are the most popular times to travel due to the pleasant weather. Summer can be quite warm and also the regions are more crowded. River cruises are perfect for group travel. Seniors, music and art groups, garden or bridge clubs, church groups, Alumni and Wine afficionados would love River cruising. As always, I am here to assist you with planning, organizing and managing your next adventure...why not make it a River Cruise? Imagine...Oh the places you can go! Click on the link below and like my Cruise Holidays business page on Facebook and enter to WIN a Cruise for 2 on AmaWaterways! http://bit.ly/YD044a